A complex market of players must be penetrated from the off. Are you getting value for money? It's a question that consumers must consider with every purchase.

Starting off with a poor team is no fun at all—especially when playing online. You possess the financial prowess of Portsmouth, while everyone else seems to have the never ending funds of Paris Saint-Germain, right?

Well, not necessarily. Excellent teams can be constructed for little money. If you look in the right place, there's plenty of bargains to be had.

I've put together five budget teams. I wanted to keep the cost down, so haven't spent more than 1,500 coins on one player. To ensure each 11 is filled with quality, I also ensured the average rating didn't drop below 80.

These teams enjoy 100 percent chemistry. Quite often, this sense of morale is more important than spending 200,000 coins on a star individual.

Note: 4-1-2-1-2 cards are typically more expensive due to their popularity. The same goes for Premier League players.

Bundesliga

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As mentioned already, the 4-1-2-1-2 formation is rather expensive due to its popularity. This is undoubtedly the most adaptable and balanced setup any Ultimate Team can use. Bundesliga cards are relatively cheap—meaning you can put together an excellent 4-1-2-1-2 side without the hassle of paying ridiculous amounts for average players.

Adopters of this side should try counterattacking. While Javi Martinez and a solid defence keep things together at the back, the likes of Mame Diouf and Jakub Blaszczykowski latch onto through balls with penetrative pace.

La Liga

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Perhaps the most surprising team selection on this list. It's interesting to see exactly what kind of quality you can purchase with minimal funds.

This side builds on the reliable quality of various Valencia stars. The midfield is crammed with urgency and flair—even though it includes the dogged tackling skills of Michael Essien. Such a mix is brought together successfully by Jose Callejon, who buzzes just behind star striker Roberto Soldado. An effective side if you utilise short interchanges.

Ligue 1

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Many will underestimate this Ligue 1 team. Take a closer look. Hidden among the depths of a relatively poor league are plenty of individuals who are worth your money.

The decision to play three at the back is bold. This choice is made viable by the presence of two holding midfielders—both of whom are keen to clatter into opponents at every opportunity. Attacking support comes from two wingers who are expected to feed the diverse front line. If you enjoy mixing strength and speed, this lineup is for you.

Premier League

Similar to the real transfer market, many players are overpriced in English football. It's a struggle to put together a side that sustains quality throughout the pitch—but we can try.

Four defenders and an offensive mindset is key here. Plenty of space opens up without traditional wingers, meaning your fullbacks must be ready to gallop forward. Midfield battles are likely to be won by the mix of defensive ability, creative skill and physical power.

Serie A

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If you want value for money, look no further than Serie A. Corrupt Italian football seems to have put many players off. As you'll see, this team flaunts real quality from front to back—with a couple of superstars thrown in for good measure.

The likes of Arturo Vidal, Marek Hamsik and Stevan Jovetic will immediately strike fear into your rivals. Away from this world-class trio, the immense finishing power of Miroslav Klose injects a sense of efficiency into the side. Tight at the back and ready to pounce going forward, this setup is a steal if you play your cards right.